Teachers would offer classes such as future studies, genealogy, financial planning and introduction to stage make-up. This program allowed students to explore different areas of study and to take a break from the routine classes they attended day after day. For me, this program epitomizes the original Pine View experience.
The program came to end due to a change in school attitude, according to Johnston. The high school students chose to not attend class on Wednesdays, so the program died out.
Both my father and aunt attended Pine View in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Back then, the school was brand new and students enjoyed several freedoms. One of these freedoms was Advex. To this day, they both reflect on the program and feel that it was one of the many reasons why Pine View was such a special school.
I believe that if we brought Advex back, students and teachers would find it beneficial and rewarding. Because of the implementation of standardized initiatives, such as the Florida Standards and Common Core, and the onslaught of tests in many classes, students and teachers can find it challenging to remain passionate about education.
It would be advantageous to the Pine View curriculum, giving staff and students the chance to relax and explore different fields of study that are not offered year-round.
The program gives students the chance to learn more about subjects they might want to pursue later in life. It also provides teachers with the time to teach subjects that are not included in the Common Core and that won’t be tested at a later date. I know many teachers who have hobbies and interests that fall outside the realm of school. Not only did Advex include scholarly subjects, but it included several games and sports.
Advex should be offered to the entire school, too. The freedom to take a closer look at these classes is important for all grades. Pine View is a school comprised of hard-working and mature students who are invested in their educations. It is also home to some of the best teachers in the county. Both students and teachers deserve the chance to experience the Advex program and to deviate from the standards of modern education.